Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and although it may seem counterintuitive, not all emergencies are obvious. Most people think of tooth loss after trauma when they think of dental emergencies. However, this is only one of the many signs that you should seek urgent dental services.
Here are 5 other reasons you might need urgent dental care:
Most everyone has experienced a toothache at some point in their lives, but few seek dental emergency care because of it. But sometimes, a toothache cannot be properly managed with a cold compress on the cheek or even with over-the-counter medication.
If you experience throbbing pain that doesn’t go away, you likely have an infected tooth that needs to be looked at as soon as possible.
If you keep seeing blood or slightly pink saliva after you floss and brush your teeth, this is a telling sign you should see a dentist right away. Gum bleeding can mean different things, such as tartar buildup or gum disease. If you catch gum disease in its earliest stage, you can prevent the gum line from receding and even permanent tooth loss.
If you notice one or more of your teeth are loose, consider it another dental emergency. It’s essential to pinpoint why your teeth are loose and get treated right away to prevent permanent tooth loss.
If the tooth has already fallen out, there may be a chance to save it! Put it in a container with milk and see a dentist right away for replanting.
If you notice a mass appearing in your mouth, such as on the jawline or even on the tissue in your cheek, it’s good to give your dentist a call. While in most cases there may be nothing to worry about, mass growth is a common sign of oral cancer. Your dentist will perform a screening to confirm the diagnosis and recommend the best course of action.
Luckily, oral cancer can be successfully treated when it’s caught in the early stages, so get screened right away!
If your jaw is stiff or popping, you might be experiencing the signs of TMJ, which is another reason to see the dentist right away. TMJ limits jaw mobility and makes it difficult to chew or even speak.
If you notice any of the signs on this list or have other pressing dental needs to address, Kite & Key Dentistry is here to help. Our emergency dental services can provide top-notch dental care and peace of mind to everyone in the Ridley Park and Folsom areas.
Book an appointment with Dr. Julia Winter today, or call us directly at (484) 240-7741 and tell us about your dental emergency now.